What is the Difference Between Yeast Infection and BV?
🆚 Go to Comparative Table 🆚The main differences between yeast infections and bacterial vaginosis (BV) lie in their causes, symptoms, and treatments. Both conditions can cause vaginal inflammation, but they have distinct characteristics:
Causes:
- BV results from an overgrowth of harmful bacteria in the vagina, specifically anaerobic bacteria disrupting the balance of vaginal flora.
- Yeast infections are caused by an overgrowth of Candida fungus, which can disrupt the vagina's natural defense mechanisms and lead to inflammation.
Symptoms:
- BV typically causes a thin, yellow or gray discharge with a strong, unpleasant odor, often described as "fishy".
- Yeast infections typically cause a thick, white, odorless discharge.
- Both conditions can cause vaginal itching, burning sensations, and discomfort.
Treatments:
- BV is usually treated with antibiotic medications, either in the form of oral tablets or vaginal creams and gels.
- Yeast infections are typically treated with antifungal medications, which can be obtained over-the-counter for mild to moderate cases.
It is essential to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment, as self-diagnosis can lead to incorrect treatment and potential complications.
On this pageWhat is the Difference Between Yeast Infection and BV? Comparative Table: Yeast Infection vs BV
Comparative Table: Yeast Infection vs BV
Here is a table comparing the differences between yeast infections and bacterial vaginosis (BV):
Factor | Yeast Infection | Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) |
---|---|---|
Cause | Overgrowth of Candida fungus | Overgrowth of bacteria, specifically Gardnerella vaginalis |
Discharge | White, thick, and odorless (like cottage cheese) or smells like yeast | Thin, grey, or white with a distinctive fishy odor |
Treatment | Antifungal medications | Prescription antibiotics |
Prevention | Avoiding douching, using gentle soap, wearing breathable clothing | Limiting sex partners, using condoms, avoiding douching, and smoking cessation |
Triggers | Menstruation, pregnancy, antibiotic use, and weakened immune system | Menstruation, pregnancy, hormonal changes, sexual activity, and use of perfumed products |
Both yeast infections and BV are common causes of vaginitis, but they have different causes, symptoms, and treatments.
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- Yeast Infection vs Gonorrhea
- Normal Discharge vs Yeast Infection
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- Chlamydia vs Thrush
- Yeast vs Fungi
- Molds vs Yeasts
- Bacterial vs Fungal Skin Infection
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- UTI vs Bladder Infection
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